Best Kara Barker Podcasts (2025)

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Us Weekly Time Capsule Mini 19:24

Play Pause

2d ago19:24

19:24

This timeline sucks, yes? This week, we’re doing something a little different, a quick time travel back to the world of September 15, 2003. Tess flips through an US Weekly from this glorious time, when Madonna and Britney had just kissed at the VMAs, Beyonce was just starting to go solo, and life was pretty good. Follow Pop Mystery Pod on Twitter, …

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Mariah and Mom’s Spaghetti (with Kara Luiz) 48:08

9d ago48:08

48:08

In part two of this Mariah tale, we get into the nitty gritty of what actually went down between Mariah Carey and Eminem. Did Mariah and Marshall Mathers actually date? Why is Eminem so obsessed with her? Was it all worth it, for us to get a music video of Mariah in drag as Eminem? We’ll say this - beware of all Detroit “touchdowns.” Joining Tess t…

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Ep. 49 - Autistic Intersectional Experiences (with Ryan Perez) 1:39:23

10d ago1:39:23

1:39:23

Ep. 49 - Autistic Intersectional Experiences (with Ryan Perez) Bruce and Kara chat with Ryan Perez about navigating life, the diagnostic process, accessing resources, and barriers experienced as a black bi/demisexual/poly autistic man. We also talk about disassociation, anti-miscenegation laws, the intertwined nature of racism, ableism, and other f…

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The Incarceration of Mimi (with Kara Luiz) 53:46

16d ago53:46

53:46

Mariah Carey is, in many ways, a definitive diva. She’s got the pipes, she’s got the style, and the attitude. Behind Mariah’s coy smile and wind blown curls, though, there is a person who has survived extraordinary circumstances. As Mariah Carey was blowing up as one of the most famous and successful recording artists in the world, she was living a…

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The BravHERy Blueprint w/ Kara 17:07

14d ago17:07

17:07

🎙 Season 7 Finale — The Bravery Blueprint Hosted by Kara Barker | The Hello MaximizHER Podcast Welcome to the final episode of Season 7 — and this one? It’s personal. In this solo season finale, Kara Barker gets all the way real about what it means to be brave in everyday life — not the loud, spotlight-stealing kind, but the kind that whispers, “I’…

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Everyone F—-ing Everyone in Fleetwood Mac (with Jackie Zebrokwski) 1:11:13

23d ago1:11:13

1:11:13

“Rumors,” is an apropos name for the dream of an album that was born of two and a half couples all sharing a tiny recording studio while actively doing all of the cocaine. Rumors, indeed, have long circulated that while Fleetwood Mac was creating its opus, each member was also actively destroying their lives. What really happened in those powder fi…

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Your Dream Ain’t Big Enough w/Dr. Monique Bruner 1:06:47

21d ago1:06:47

1:06:47

If your dream doesn’t make you pause… it ain’t big enough. In this real, refreshing conversation, Dr. Monique Bruner joins The Hello MaximizHER Podcast to talk about what it takes to dream audaciously—and why Black women must stop pushing rest to the side to prove their worth. This episode unpacks the truth: Rest is a right, not a luxury. We dive i…

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Ep. 48 - Intuition, Improvisation, & Indigenous Knowledge-Keeping (with Julianna Maggrah) 1:33:04

25d ago1:33:04

1:33:04

Bruce and Kara chat with Julianna Maggrah about Indigenous ways of being, doing, and knowing; her late diagnosis; exploring Indigenous views of autism; thoughts on creativity and expression; and the interplay of all of these topics, together. Guest Bio: Julianna Maggrah is a 2 Spirit, neurodivergent Indigenous woman born and raised in northern Sask…

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Tri Star: The Combs to Spears Connection 40:04

1M ago40:04

40:04

In the past few years, two big entertainment stories stand out as exceptionally shocking and horrifying: the wrongful conservatorship of Britney Spears, and the alleged large-scale sex trafficking syndicate of Sean Diddy Combs. It’s chilling then, to consider that both the business affairs of Sean Combs and Britney Spears were handled by the same b…

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Unmuted: Bravery, Stretch Seasons & Leading with Confidence w/Alaina Johnson 49:01

28d ago49:01

49:01

Let’s be real—using your voice isn’t always easy. Sometimes it costs you the room, the vibe, or even your peace. But staying silent? That costs way more. In this powerful episode of The Hello MaximizHER Podcast, we’re diving into what it truly means to lead during stretch seasons—the kind that grow you, challenge you, and call for courage even when…

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Sex and the Inequity (with MK Paulsen) 1:20:18

1M ago1:20:18

1:20:18

“Sex and the City,” did more than usher in the ‘golden’ era of HBO. It created characters that endeared themselves to countless viewers with their depth, relatability, and deeply enviable wardrobes. Despite the fact that this is a show about friends and friendship, however, rumors have persisted for years that a long-standing feud exists between tw…

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Human(ing) Well with Amber Cabral: Rest, Equity, and the Courage to Adjust 1:08:45

1M ago1:08:45

1:08:45

In this transformative episode of The Hello MaximizHer Podcast, Kara Barker sits down with Amber Cabral—author, speaker, award-winning strategist, and host of the Human(ing) Well Podcast—for a deeply honest conversation about the hidden cost of pushing through, the necessity of rest, and what it truly means to honor your humanity while still leadin…

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Ep. 47 - Kara's New Book 1:21:18

1M ago1:21:18

1:21:18

Ep. 47 - Kara's New Book Maja interviews Kara about her new book, Creating a Neurodiversity-Affirming Classroom. Maja gets to the root of Kara's process, inspiration, teaching experiences at various levels of education, and the strengths and potential impacts of this book. Hear Kara fangirl about her favourite researchers and Maja fangirl about Kar…

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La Veneno: Queen of the Late Night (with Tamara Yajia) 59:55

1M ago59:55

59:55

“La Veneno,” aka Cristina Ortiz Rodriguez, was a tour de force and a revolutionary. She delivered jokes flawlessly, covered her nipples barely, and changed the way Spain viewed trans people. Joining Tess to talk through the legendary life and mysterious death of Cristina Ortiz Rodriguez is writer and performer Tamara Yajia @tamarayajia (“Acapulco”;…

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Boardroom to Boss Moves: Building Her Own Table w/ Daphine Willingham 1:21:54

1M ago1:21:54

1:21:54

What happens when you stop waiting for a seat and decide to build the whole table yourself? In this inspiring episode, Daphine Willingham shares her journey from climbing the corporate ladder to launching her own thriving State Farm agency. With unshakeable faith and fierce determination, Daphine walks us through the mindset shifts, pivots, and bol…

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Mute the Distractions. Move with Purpose. w/Kristen Crockett 1:02:43

2M ago1:02:43

1:02:43

Ever felt like you’re doing all the right things—but still feel off, overwhelmed, or just plain empty? In this raw, real, and revelation-packed episode, Transformation Coach Kristen Crockett invites us to pause the hustle and take a hard look at what’s fueling us… and what’s quietly draining us. We dive deep into the hidden costs of distraction, th…

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Ep. 46 - Competing needs, Communication, & Community Support 1:31:52

2M ago1:31:52

1:31:52

Ep. 46 - Competing needs, Communication, & Community Support Bruce, Kara, and Maja are back! In the first episode of Season 4, they catch up, share what they’ve been up to, and discuss the need for collective advocacy within the autistic community, as well as some of the associated challenges such as competing needs, stressful environments, immedia…

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Injustice is Served: The Sean Diddy Combs Verdict 38:25

2M ago38:25

38:25

After weeks of disturbing witness testimony, the jury in the Sean Diddy Combs case has delivered a confounding, and frankly insulting verdict. How did we get here? And why? Follow Pop Mystery Pod on Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok @popmysterypod Pop Mystery Pod is written and produced by Tess Barker @tesstifybarker. Produced by Tyler Hill. Theme son…

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Amazingly Brave w/ Ebony Skillens 1:13:18

2M ago1:13:18

1:13:18

In this soul-shifting episode, Kara sits down with Licensed Counselor Ebony Mayes Skillens of Amayesing Skills Counseling Center to unpack the emotional toll of perfectionism, high performance, and silent overwhelm. Together, they go deep into what it means to break free from the pressure to “keep it all together,” even when your heart is unravelin…

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The Framing of Pee-Wee Herman (with Erin Lampart) 1:21:55

2M ago1:21:55

1:21:55

It was a place where everyone was welcome: “Pee-Wee’s Playhouse.” This magical fever dream of a show impacted an entire generation of people. It also made such a big star of its creator, Paul Reubens, that when Reubens was arrested after being targeted by Florida police, his reputation had a far way to fall. Joining Tess to talk though the genius o…

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Uncompromised Faith & Unapologetic w/ Andrea Wallace 1:17:00

2M ago1:17:00

1:17:00

In this powerful conversation, Gen Zer Andrea Wallace — youth pastor, influencer, and mentor — gets real about what it means to carry bold faith in a world that’s loud, curated, and often compromised. With transparency and grace, Andrea shares how she navigates platform pressure, cultural expectations, and the sacred call to disciple Gen Z without …

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THE Dress (with Jamie Loftus) 1:02:47

2M ago1:02:47

1:02:47

Was it white and gold or blue and black? The important thing is, when “The Dress” took over the internet for a glorious week in 2015, the internet was still fun. Joining Tess to talk through the historic and fascinating phenomenon of The Dress, and what it says about today’s internet is Jamie Loftus @jamiechristsuperstar (The Bechdel Cast, My Year …

1
Bold Moves Only: Navigating Career Shifts with Confidence w/ Richelle Howell 1:18:48

2M ago1:18:48

1:18:48

Career shifts can be scary—but they’re also your gateway to growth. In this energizing episode of Hello MaximizHER, healthcare recruiter and career strategist Richelle Howell breaks down how to navigate career transitions with boldness, clarity and confidence. We dive into: ✨ How to stand out in a competitive job market ✨ What recruiters really loo…

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The Mysterious Death of Kim Porter 36:28

3M ago36:28

36:28

Sean Diddy Combs’ long-time partner and co-parent died at the young age of 47. At the time, her death was ruled the result of pneumonia, but insiders have expressed suspicions around why Porter really died. Given what’s been alleged about Combs in recent years, Tess unpacks the facts and rumors around Porter’s life and death. Follow Pop Mystery Pod…

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Esthetically Brave; Beautifully Bold w/ Ciara Amir-Beckford 1:02:16

3M ago1:02:16

1:02:16

Hey MaximizHERs! This episode right here? ESTHETICALLY BRAVE. 💄🔥 This sister didn’t play it safe. She chose herself. She trusted God. She made bold moves—and now, she’s walking in beauty, bravery, and divine purpose. ✨ Meet Ciara Amir Beckford—certified medical micropigmentologist, licensed esthetician, and healing artist. She’s helping women resto…

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Why We’re Still Seeing So Many “Stories” About the Lively/Baldoni Case 25:27

3M ago25:27

25:27

It’s been half a year since anything meaningful happened in the Baldoni/Lively case. So why do we keep seeing headlines about it? Tess has some ideas. Follow Pop Mystery Pod on Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok @popmysterypod Pop Mystery Pod is written and produced by Tess Barker @tesstifybarker. Produced by Tyler Hill. Theme song by Rick Wood @Rickw0…

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Know Your Roots, Own Your Power with Rikisha Morgan-Harrison 55:23

3M ago55:23

55:23

Sis, are you ready to reconnect with your roots and rediscover the power of your story? We’re joined by the incredible Rikisha Morgan Harrison, a woman on a mission to help us trace our lineage, honor our ancestors, and find healing in our history. This episode is giving wisdom, identity, and legacy—all the things we need to walk fully in our purpo…

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The Sean Diddy Combs Trial - Bombshells So Far 26:45

3M ago26:45

26:45

As we cross what appears to be the midpoint of Sean Diddy Combs’ federal trial, Tess rounds up highlights from witnesses like Cassie Ventura and Kid Cudi, and assesses the prosecution and defense’s strategies thus far. Follow Pop Mystery Pod on Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok @popmysterypod Pop Mystery Pod is written and produced by Tess Barker @tes…

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More Than Love: Learning To Like Your Spouse 1:01:43

3M ago1:01:43

1:01:43

Loving your spouse may come naturally—but liking them every day? That can take work. In this final episode of the season, we dive into the often overlooked dynamic of friendship in marriage. From finding common ground to navigating daily irritations, we explore why emotional connection, shared fun, and mutual respect are just as crucial as romantic…

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The Dinosaur Movie Whoopi Goldberg Made Under Duress (with Tom Lenk) 1:13:13

3M ago1:13:13

1:13:13

Making a dinosaur buddy cop movie is all fun and games, until you’re Whoopi Goldberg and you actually have to shoot this thing with sworn enemies. Joining Tess on this bonkers journey that sent Tess into the courthouse archives is the hilarious Tom Lenk @tommylenk (“Barb and Star Go to Vista Del Mar,” “Buffy the Vampire Slayer,” “Tilda Swinton Answ…

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The Fun Factor: Keeping Fun Alive In Marriage 51:59

3M ago51:59

51:59

In this episode, we explore how laughter, playfulness, and shared adventures can strengthen a marriage. We’ll discuss why having fun together is essential for emotional connection, how to rediscover joy in everyday life, and practical ideas couples can use to bring more lightheartedness into their relationship. Whether you’re newlyweds or celebrati…

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Patti LuPone Loses It (with Paul Caiola) 1:06:12

4M ago1:06:12

1:06:12

There’s only one Patti LuPone. Which is why the s**t hit the gold plated fan when Andrew Llyod Webber tried to have two Norma Desmonds. Tess is joined by Paul Caiola, one of the hosts of “That Aged Well,” (@thatagedwell) as the two of them dissect the fascinating and high drama turns of Patti Lupone’s “Sunset Blvd,” firing, and the antics that foll…

1
Humble Beginnings 49:28

4M ago49:28

49:28

Today we take a trip back down memory lane where it all started in Spring of 1995 on the campus at the University of Oklahoma. This is our genesis story of humble beginnings.

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Tommy Boy is Hamlet (with Lisa Chanoux) 1:26:40

4M ago1:26:40

1:26:40

To be, or not to be? Aye, there’s the central question at the heart of the classic work “Tommy Boy” the 1995 broad comedy starring the late Chris Farley. This movie is more than a work of staggering childish genius. It is also a sophisticated adaptation of “Hamlet,” as in, the Shakespeare one. Joining Tess for a close reading of “Tommy Boy” through…

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From Kids to Clients: Parenting Adult Children 51:17

4M ago51:17

51:17

As parents we count it a joy and honor to raise little ones that potentially could be the future leaders and business people in the world. It's cute and fun watching them murmur their first word or take their first steps, But what about when they are all grown up and the things you thought were cute and cuddly are now frustrating and costly. In tod…

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Cassidy Ventura: The One That Got Away 40:46

4M ago40:46

40:46

The landslide of allegations against Sean Diddy Combs was started by a singular person - R&B singer Cassie Ventura. Cassie’s allegations formed the framework for the federal case against Sean Combs, which is set to kick off May 5, 2025. Tess takes a deep look into Cassie’s harrowing escape and the surprising stories Cassie’s intersects with. Follow…

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SEXpectations 1:07:46

4M ago1:07:46

1:07:46

In today's conversation we dive into the taboo conversation that most Christian couples don't like to have before marriage: SEX! Contrary to popular belief, sex was created by God to be enjoyed in marriage. Join us as we dive deep into this hot topic.

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Selena, Yolanda, and the Room Where It Happened (with Vanessa Gonzalez) 1:19:54

4M ago1:19:54

1:19:54

Selena Quintanilla was 23 years old, and well on her way to becoming an international megastar when she was shot and killed by Yolanda Saldivar, the president of her fan club. Though a biopic starring Jennifer Lopez paints a fairly simple picture of this tragic death, the truth appears less black and white. Only two people really know how and Selen…

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Baggage Claim 47:49

4M ago47:49

47:49

In today's episode we are talking about reflecting on our past and dealing with childhood trauma, past wounds and the baggage that we all bring into relationships that many of us fail to address prior to marriage.

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It Takes Two (Episodes) - The Olsen Twins Return (With Guy Branum) 51:58

5M ago51:58

51:58

If there is such a thing as the typical college experience, Mary Kate and Ashley Olsen, the two most famous child star twins of all time, were probably never going to have it. Nevertheless, they persisted…kind of. Joining Tess to talk through the Olsen twins transition to otherworldly fashion icons is writer, actor, and comic Guy Branum. See Guy’s …

1
Millennial Love (with Maiya Barker) 57:27

5M ago57:27

57:27

Our 24 year old daughter Maiya joins us this week to give the next generation's perspective on love, dating and relationships.

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The Olsen Twins: The Origin Story (With Guy Branum) 53:03

5M ago53:03

53:03

The Olsen twins are endlessly fascinating celebrities. They were selected for stardom before they could walk. They’re both an inspirational story and I cautionary tale. They’re just so important. Joining Tess to talk through the wild mystery that is the Olsen twins existence is writer, actor, and comic Guy Branum. See Guy’s new one-person show “Fru…

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Boundaries In Marriage 46:26

5M ago46:26

46:26

Creating healthy boundaries is important for any kind of relationship but in today's episode we discuss the importance of healthy boundaries in marriage.

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The Mall in Barbra Streisand’s Basement (with Chelsea Devantez) 1:18:14

5M ago1:18:14

1:18:14

Forget skeletons in the closet. Barbra Streisand has a mall. In her basement. Like, a real one. Joining Tess to tour this fascinating and unhinged corner of American architecture is writer, director, and podcaster Chelsea Devantez. Chelsea’s memoir “I Shouldn’t Be Telling You This, But I’m Going to Anyway,” is out now. Her podcast “Glamorous Trash”…

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Hidden Treasure 58:59

5M ago58:59

58:59

In this episode Lonnie and Kara continue the discussion about finances and money matters but also from the perspective of discovering your God-given gifts and talents to help generate income for your family.

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Jojo Siwa and Unhappy Pop Star Campers (with Jade Catta-Preta) 1:19:34

5M ago1:19:34

1:19:34

Before she was proclaiming she’d invented “gay pop,” child dance phenom-turned heavily costumed try-hard helmed a junior girl group called XOMG. The group claimed to offer aspiring pop stars as young as 8 years old a line into their show biz dreams. Some claim what followed was a candy-flavored nightmare. Joining Tess to talk through Jojo’s turn as…

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Money Matters 45:49

5M ago45:49

45:49

In this new episode, Lonnie and Kara have a transparent discussion about their past dilemmas with money and finances and how money is one of the leading causes of divorce in marriage.

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Sean Diddy Combs: An Alleged Surprise Attack 41:27

5M ago41:27

41:27

“Plaintiff would pay for her statement regarding Tupac.” In this chilling line from an assault case filed against Sean Diddy Combs, legal representatives for Ashley Parham, an alleged victim’s of Sean Combs synopsize what is a shocking and brutal claim of sexual assault by Combs. Parham’s story is deeply disturbing. It also provides telling insight…

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Blake Lively vs Justin Baldoni: It Ends Here (For Now) 43:20

7M ago43:20

43:20

Cameras wrap on “It Ends With Us.” Now, the real battle begins. After Blake Lively alleges that she’s been harassed while filming this movie, her attempts at wrestling back agency stall out. Ultimately, Lively is able to get back some power…but at what cost? And who is really making her pay? Tess has sifted through the many legal filings in this ca…

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Blake Lively vs Justin Baldoni: The Beginning 41:21

7M ago41:21

41:21

Betrayal. Gaslighting. Things not being what they seem. These are themes in the movie “It Ends With Us,” but they could also describe the dramatic and seemingly constantly escalating conflict between actor and fashionista Blake Lively and her co-star and director Justin Baldoni. Tess has sifted through the many wordy legal filings and blurry screen…